Selfishness < Self-Care

by Medgina Saint-Elien

Remember that dramatic stage we all went through in middle school? The super exaggerated emotions and actions we took when trying to express ourselves (i.e: wearing all black on V-Day)?

I’ve always felt that way about Valentine’s Day. I may sound like a Debbie Downer but I didn’t see why it was such a big deal.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a hopeless romantic. Hardcore, hands down, I’ll fully admit it.

My problem with Valentine’s Day is what it’s been made out to be. Corny and commercialized. It’s all about finding someone to love you and if you don’t, it’s a huge problem that needs immediate solution. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be loved, it’s a natural response. BUT why can’t loving yourself be enough for once?

This post is for those who want so much yet don’t know themselves. I’m talking of identity and measuring your worth. In an age of hunting for approval and looking for love in all the wrong places, you have to stop to consider yourself. It isn’t selfish, it’s self-care.

“We accept the love we think we deserve.” You owe it to yourself to love who you are the same way you love those around you…sometimes even more! Stop bending over backwards for those who won’t move an inch. That’s the first step to being able to see yourself as enough.

When you’ve reached the point of self-confidence, you have the ability to love yourself unconditionally. The ultimate goal is to not depend on others to be happy.

You shouldn’t feel like you’re losing a part of who you are when you’re alone. You shouldn’t have to change to receive the love you crave so deeply from others.

At all times, the most amazing thing you can do is learn new things about yourself on your own. Everything in life will be more stress-free if you stop worrying about what you can put forth and find strength in the abilities you have within you.

Don’t lose yourself in pursuing approval from everyone else.

Take the opportunities to know your likes and dislikes, embrace flaws and own them! Waiting for someone to accept them and to see your worth is a waste of time. Beauty is already inside of you and there is nothing more striking than self-assurance.

Don’t harden your heart in the fear of getting hurt – protection doesn’t mean throwing away the key. It’s scary at first but loving yourself encourages a stronger and critical eye to situations that affect you. It’ll help you realize who and what needs to be cut out of your life.

You’re not a picture perfect Hallmark card and that’s okay. They’re cheesy anyway! Just learn to appreciate your heart. There’s no reason to hide any of that greatness inside of you.

Much love,

Medge ❤